WASHINGTON – Transportation Security Administration announced today that the first certified third-party canine team began screening air cargo this week – fulfilling a requirement in the TSA Modernization Act of 2018 to develop standards for the use of third-party canines for air cargo screening. The program was signed into law early October and first opened to third-party canine providers in November, allowing qualified explosives detection canine team providers to become a regulated Certified Cargo Screening Facility-Canine (CCSF-K9).
“This program allows TSA to expand its network of certified explosives detection canines further enhancing aviation security,” said TSA Administrator David P. Pekoske. “The canine program is an integral part of TSA’s layered approach to security. This is a significant achievement for TSA’s explosive detection canine program.”
The Certified Cargo Screening Program-Canine established a regulatory framework that allows third-party canines to screen cargo to TSA standards. It is an evolution in TSA’s overall air cargo security framework, and provides another method for air carriers to screen cargo to agency standards in an efficient and cost effective manner consistent with international standards.
Interested canine team providers can request additional information at 3PK9aircargosecurity@tsa.dhs.gov to learn about the requirements for participation in the program. Once approved by TSA, the CCSF-K9 must comply with statutory and regulatory requirements for the screening of air cargo intended for transport on aircraft.